Lifeguards, first responders save drowning boy at Westhills pool

Lifeguards and staff at the Westhills YMCA-YWCA are being credited with saving the life of a young child over the weekend.

A little boy nearly drowned on Sunday, but was saved by quick-thinking lifeguards, along with a pair of off-duty paramedics who sprung into action to assist until first responders arrived.

An eyewitness told Black Press Media in Victoria that the child submerged for at least 30 seconds before being pulled from the water. He believed the child had lost consciousness – or had actually drowned before being resuscitated.

The YMCA/YWCA of Vancouver Island confirmed there was medical emergency at the Westhills location on Sunday, saying the boy regained consciousness before being transported to hospital.

Life guards followed procedures, they stated.

The public was quickly evacuated from the pool, which was briefly closed to the public while the rescue operation took place.